Bike News

Modified Royal Enfield 650 breaks speed record

A heavily modified version of the upcoming Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 has managed to hit 241kph at the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA. While the record still needs the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) certification, Royal Enfield has said that it – along with its 18-year-old rider Cayla Rivas – managed to complete 20 runs on the motorcycle.

Built by Harris Performance – which is owned by Eicher (parent company of Royal Enfield) – the record-setting bike is based on the soon to-be-launched Continental GT 650. However, aside from the engine, nothing on (the outside of) the motorcycle looks like it's been borrowed from the production model. It employs custom suspension (which appears to be an Öhlins-sourced USD with a steering damper) and a hard-tail. The bike also rides on lighter wheels and slick tyres. Cayla can also be seen in an aggressive riding position thanks to the low-set clip-on handlebars and the rear-set foot pegs.

It also appears to have more aerodynamic bodywork, and a different frame and swing arm that seem to have been built by Harris Performance. While Royal Enfield has not specified any mechanical details, the exhaust on the motorcycle has S&S branding. This leads us to believe that the motor has been worked upon by the American brand to churn out more power. We can also see a nitrous oxide tank below the seat.

Meanwhile, the production model employs a 648cc, air-cooled, parallel-twin engine that makes 47hp and 52Nm of torque. This engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox and uses a slip-assist clutch.